What Makes an Event Truly Sensory-Friendly?

A sensory-friendly environment is designed to reduce overwhelming sights, sounds, and other physical stimuli. People process sensory information differently, with some being especially sensitive to sound, bright light, smells, touch, crowds or certain textures. This can particularly be the case with individuals with autism, PTSD, anxiety, or sensory processing difficulties. 

This article aims to outline the ways in which events and activities can be made to be sensory-friendly and thus create an inclusive environment for individuals with different sensory needs. 

That being said, it’s not one size fits all, and sensory needs vary enormously from person to person. There isn't one universally ‘perfect’ sensory environment.

Adjust the environment 

• Turn down or remove background music when it isn't necessary.

• Avoid sudden loud noises/announcements where possible.

• Avoid flashing or strobe lighting.

• Dim harsh lighting or provide areas with softer lighting.

• Avoid strong air fresheners, perfume, cleaning products and food smells; if food is part of the activity, offer some choice and don't pressure children to taste or touch foods they find uncomfortable.

The idea here is to remove unnecessary sensory intensity.

Think about crowds and provide a quiet space

Don’t forget that being bumped into, standing in a tightly packed line, or navigating a very crowded room can also be overwhelming.

Possible solutions can include staggered entry, smaller groups, clearer walking routes, plenty of space between activities, and avoiding unnecessary queues. ASERT notes that limiting attendance or staggering start times can help reduce the impact of crowds.

Furthermore, a separate quiet/low-stimulation area in the venue can make a huge difference. This would ideally be located somewhere away from the main crowd, and include seating, lower lighting, and minimal noise. It could also include items like fidget toys, coloring materials or other calming sensory items.

Importantly, needing a break shouldn't mean somebody has to leave the entire event. ASERT specifically recommends designated quiet spaces at sensory-friendly events.

Make things predictable

Telling families what to expect can help them decide what they need to bring and how they can prepare someone for unfamiliar surroundings. Both ASERT and the National Autistic Society recommend telling people what to expect in advance. 

As previously stated, there isn't one universally ‘perfect’ sensory environment, however this way, people can use the strategies that work for them. They might bring items such as noise-reducing headphones/ear defenders, sunglasses and fidget or sensory tools, move around or stim, step outside and come back, or not participate in touch-based activities.

Staff awareness matters

Staff/volunteers should know where the quiet area is and what sensory accommodations are available, and they should understand that someone covering their ears, moving around, stimming, withdrawing from an activity or needing a break isn't necessarily ‘misbehaving’.

The goal should be helping people regulate and participate in the way that works for them, rather than making everyone behave identically.

Staff and volunteers should also not assume every child wants a hug, high five, handshake, costume, face painting, etc. Offer activities rather than insisting upon them.

ASERT recommends allowing people to decline physical greetings, and ChildServe advises making touch-based activities optional.

Remember that everyone's sensory needs are different

You cannot make one environment meet every person's sensory preferences simultaneously.

A truly sensory-friendly event therefore isn't about removing all stimulation, rather it's about reducing avoidable barriers, providing quieter alternatives, giving useful information beforehand, and letting participants choose what works for them.

Sources 

ASERT – Hosting a Sensory Friendly Event: https://paautism.org/resource/hosting-sensory-friendly-event/ 

National Autistic Society – Sensory Processing: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/about-autism/sensory-processing 

ChildServe – How to Make Your Event Sensory-Friendly: https://www.childserve.org/how-to-make-your-event-sensory-friendly/